A 37-year-old man from mid Wales has died after catching chickenpox, it has emerged.

Geraint Wyn Hughes, from Llanilar, near Aberystwyth, died on Sunday after being unwell for several days.

His friend Martin Dickinson said everyone who knew the married father-of-one was "in shock" and "heartbroken and devastated".

The National Public Health Service for Wales said three people died from chickenpox between 2001 and 2006.

It added that nearly 1,000 people aged over 15 visited their GP suffering from the illness last year.

Mr Dickinson said he had been close friends with Mr Hughes for about 16 years, and was best man at his wedding.

"Nobody can believe what has happened really. Everybody is in shock and heartbroken and devastated by the news," he added.

"He was a great guy. He was very down to earth."

Mr Hughes worked as a technician at Aberystwyth University for nearly 20 years.

Michael Woods, acting director at the institute of geography and earth sciences, said staff in the department were "shocked and saddened to hear of the tragic death".

Mr Woods added: "Geraint was a much valued member of the institute who had, over 19 years, come to play a central role in the life and work of the department.

"His good humour, professionalism and willingness to help will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his family at this time."

Chickenpox is a highly infectious viral disease and tends to be more severe if contracted after childhood.

It can also cause miscarriage or birth defects in unborn children.

It is thought a post-mortem examination will be carried out to establish the exact cause of Mr Hughes' death.

His funeral is on Saturday.

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